Top positive review
5.0 out of 5 starsSolid power supply, clean wiring
Reviewed in the United States on April 10, 2013
I originally purchased the Corsair GS 700. They bill that model as a gaming PSU. Once installed, the PSU made a chirping noise (like a hard drive read/writing, but at a higher pitch). After searching youtube and reading more on the Corsair forums, I found this was a widespread "issue" with the GS 700. The GS model "features" a "smart" fan, which only runs when the load/temperature demands it. What I found is the fan was confused if it should run or not (attempting to kick on, chirping noise, kicking on and it running fine, then back to attempting to kick on and chirping).
When asking about this on Corsair's forums, they recommended an RMA for the same unit. Based on the many youtube videos documenting this noise and the numerous posts around this, I simply returned my unit to Best Buy for a full refund.
In looking into the Corsair models more, the CX is a lower model PSU. Anything above the CX model has the "smart" fan, which I did not want. This led me to this model.
- Great power supply
- Features a constantly running fan (at variable speeds depending on load/temp)
- Modular cabling, which allows for clean cable runs and reduces unneeded wires
- Low noise even with fan constantly running, even at higher loads/temps
While they tout the "smart" fan as a feature, for a gaming rig, I look at it as a drawback. The more airflow, the better.
I have been impressed with CX series and have not had any issues with the PSU. It is structually sound and appears solidly built. Highly recommend this unit to anyone looking for more power in their PC.
My rig:
Dell XPS 8100
Intel i7
16 GB RAM
250 GB Samsung SSD
3 TB Seagate HD
2 DVD/CD-ROMs
nVidia GTX 660 Ti (requires dual PCIe power adapters)
Dell 23" LED Monitor (DVI)
Sony Bravia 32" LCD TV (HDMI)